Feeding outside of tank

[And_Lyn]

Andrew and I were wondering if it's better to feed outside of the tank? I've seen lots of pics and videos online of people feeding their garters in plastic tubs. We were planning on doing that also. I know that some species can get "tank aggressive" when fed in their homes. Does that happen with garters?

We're also planning on using a jungle mix substrate. It's kind of a mix of mulch like material and wood chips. I just want to make sure that when feeding there is NO chance of impaction if she were to get some of the substrate on her food. We also have a leoaprd gecko and use tile in his tank for that reason

Anyway, if anyone could give input I'd appreciate it. Or if the substrate we are planning on using isn't the best, please let us know also

Thanks

-Lyndsey

[Lori P]

Because my garters are not very tame, I personally don't feed them outside of the tanks (moving them stresses them, and then they won't eat). So, I use a substrate that is safe if ingested (Carefresh). But everyone has their own way of doing things. I think the jungle mix is a fine substrate for living in, but you're right, you wouldn't want them to ingest it so you might have to work on feeding outside the tank.

[gregmonsta]

I use a combination of carefresh and repti-carpet .... you could always put paper towel over the substrate at feeding times

[And_Lyn]

I use a combination of carefresh and repti-carpet .... you could always put paper towel over the substrate at feeding times

That's a good idea. What does the carefresh look like? I've heard lots about it and am thinking about using it. We've tried repti carpet with our gecko but didnt like the look of it

[adamanteus]

I can't help on the substrate question, as I don't use 'loose' substrate. But I always feed by Garters in their vivs, I've never seen aggression from them in the way you describe.

[crzy_kevo]

unless you can count the occasional food fight just keep an eye on them

[And_Lyn]

I can't help on the substrate question, as I don't use 'loose' substrate. But I always feed by Garters in their vivs, I've never seen aggression from them in the way you describe.

Sorry, to clarify I meant other species of snakes and reptiles

[prattypus]

Mine all eat seperated. There was a pretty good food fight early on, so I put the kibosh on that.

[infernalis]

Your little scrub has always been fed outside the tank.

She eats in a small plastic tub, and will take food right off the tongs for you.

She has even eaten while being held.

[crzy_kevo]

lol that is everything she needed to know

turk my juvi male actually ate while being held today i was surprised how calm he is getting, he is normally very skittish